[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 54 (Thursday, April 28, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E836]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       ENERGY POLICY ACT OF 2005

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. JEB HENSARLING

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 21, 2005

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 6) to ensure 
     jobs for our future with secure, affordable, and reliable 
     energy;

  Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Chairman, today the House of Representatives 
approved the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (H.R. 6). I supported this bill 
because our nation needs to take positive steps towards ending our 
nation's dangerous dependence on foreign sources of energy. This bill 
helps by allowing America to better utilize sources of energy that we 
possess right here at home. Furthermore, by streamlining the 
regulations governing domestic and off-shore energy production and 
repealing current restrictions on the ability of people to invest in 
electricity, H.R. 6 increases our energy security and makes certain 
that our economy will continue to have access to the energy that is 
necessary for growth.
  Unfortunately, despite its strengths, H.R. 6 also contains a number 
of provisions that I believe are unnecessary at best, and detrimental 
to the American taxpayer at worst. This bill contains dozens of newly 
authorized programs, including programs to acquire scooters and 
Segways. Although I believe there is a role for the government in 
helping develop cleaner sources of energy, the country currently faces 
an oncoming fiscal tsunami. To that end, I believe that we need to 
exercise extreme caution with the money entrusted to us by the American 
people.
  Additionally, while H.R. 6 undoubtedly contains vital provisions 
aimed at improving energy efficiency, conservation, and development of 
alternative fuel sources, I am concerned that many of the tax 
incentives used to achieve these purposes will lead to the government 
picking winners and losers in the marketplace. In light of high gas 
prices, I believe there are already numerous incentives for energy 
users to develop ways to conserve and use energy more efficiently. 
Furthermore, high energy prices can also be a powerful driver of 
innovation for alternative, renewable fuels. Any producer who can 
develop an alternative fuel that is as efficient, reliable, and at 
least as cost-effective as gasoline could make tremendous profits in 
the energy market, even without government encouragement.
  I congratulate Chairman Joe Barton on crafting a bill that makes our 
nation safer and less dependent on foreign energy. His leadership and 
commitment to passing this needed legislation should be commended. H.R. 
6 will make energy in this country more affordable, increase our energy 
security, and help Americans use energy in ways that are increasingly 
environmentally friendly. It is my hope that when we go to conference 
with the Senate, our conferees will remember the importance of 
promoting competition and innovation, while protecting taxpayers.

                          ____________________